NEW TRUCKS

Honda’s New Trailsport Logo Revealed In Patent Filing, Suggests Off-Road Models Are Coming

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While Honda‘s reputation for creating strong selling vehicles with high build quality is pretty much undisputed, the Japanese car giant has never been known for venturing too far into the off-road segment. This is partly due to the company not offering formal body-on-frame models like an SUV or pickup that could take the punishment often associated with going off the beaten path. However, a leaked patent filing suggests that Honda is eying the trail very seriously with a new Trailsport moniker and is perhaps eying the bigger sales that come with it.   What Could Trailsport Bring To Honda? Our …

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Ford Explorer Platinum Gains RWD Variant For 2021, Also Goes Green With Hybrid Model

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With the 2021 Enthusiast ST stealing the show in regards to the Explorer’s 2021 updates, Ford wanted to ensure that no stone was left unturned and has revealed that the range-topping Explorer Platinum will also receive some new additions for 2021 with the trim now adding a rear-wheel-drive option and even a hybrid flavored model for fuel-conscious buyers.   Rear Wheel Drive For The Jet Set Sets Explorer Platinum Apart In its base form, the $54,480 Explorer Platinum is a very potent statement of luxury with perforated leather seats, warm wood accents, and standard all-wheel-drive to buyers looking to have …

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Ford Enhances Explorer ST Bang For The Buck With All New 2021 Enthusiast ST Package

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The current generation Ford Explorer is proving to be a very profitable cash cow for the Dearborn-based automaker, with the recently launched King Ranch variant adding a new dimension of luxury to the model. However, the company is also listening to consumer feedback and is using the opportunity to address a potential roadblock for Explorer ST buyers, the price. It plans to achieve this with the introduction of the all-new Explorer Enthusiast ST.   Lowering The Cost Of Explorer ST Admission When the standard Explorer ST model appeared on the road, it promised to be a true performance offering for …

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2021 Ford Ranger Tremor Off-Road Review by Matt Barnes

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2021 Ford Ranger Tremor New for 2021 is the Tremor package on the Ford Ranger. The Tremor includes everything the FX4 has, like Trail Control, Terrain Management, a locking rear differential, etc. On top of the FX4, the Tremor includes a steel bash plate, 0.8-inch lift, Fox 2.0 shocks with remote reservoirs, and 32-inch General Grabber ATX tires. Before the Tremor, the Ranger FX4 was the top dog off-roader in the Ranger lineup. What have all the upgrades of the Tremor done for real world performance improvements over the FX4? High Speed High speed off-road is clearly where the Tremor …

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GMC Goes Full Circle With Hummer EV SUV, Brings Zero Emissions To Family SUV

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When GMC first unveiled the Hummer EV pickup, the brand neither confirmed nor denied plans were in the works for an SUV version. Fast forward to the 2021 March Madness tournament, and GMC officially confirmed that the Hummer SUV is for real and that it will be officially bringing the revived moniker full-circle in its quest to achieve true redemption in the eyes of a fuel-conscious world.   The Ultimate Zero Emissions Family Vehicle As the name and basic look imply, the 2024 Hummer EV SUV is the marriage of the truck’s EV technology with an SUV body. The exterior …

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Hyundai Teases Santa Cruz Pickup, New Renders Point To Potent Ridgeline Rival

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In 2015, Hyundai revealed that it was considering entering the white-hot war in the pickup segment with the Korean car giant unveiling the Santa Cruz concept, which did a good job shocking the world. Six years later, Hyundai confirms that production of the Santa Cruz is indeed happening, with the company releasing several teaser renderings of the small pickup ahead of its April 15th debut. Here are some key takeaways that you can get from the Santa Cruz.   It’s Targeting The Small Pickup Market Thankfully Hyundai is wisely not punching above its own weight class here, and the new …

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Ford Leaves Its Mark At Easter Jeep Safari, Shows Off Five Custom Bronco Builds

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The Easter Safari event has been one that has always been synonymous with Jeep and some of the wild custom creations that the off-road brand would show to eager attendees. Ford wants a slice of the action and has revealed its plans to invade the 2021 Easter Safari with five different custom Broncos that aim to show Jeep that it’s serious about bringing the fight to the brand in the quest to achieve true off-road supremacy.   RTR Leads The Charge To help facilitate this ambitious plan, Ford teamed up with RTR Vehicles (a firm better known for its Mustang-based …

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2021 Dodge Durango Hellcat Review by Matt Barnes

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2021 Dodge Durango Hellcat Adding the Hellcat Durango to the list in Dodge’s 700+ horsepower stable, and dropping the Journey and Grand Caravan, Dodge now offers a hellcat in all of their current production vehicles. Exterior The exterior of the Hellcat Durango, as with the SRT, is subdued yet powerful. The hood contains two functional vents and a hood scoop. The bumper is more aggressive than the standard Durango, and a little lower. From the side the Hellcat Durango is very similar to other Durangos. However, there is a noticeable bulge in the hood, the splitter on the front bumper …

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2021 Toyota Venza Limited Review by Ben Lewis

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Toyota likes to offer something for just about everybody. That’s what makes them consistently in the top two (sometimes 1st, sometimes 2nd to VW) manufacturers in the world. So, let’s say you have your heart set on a new SUV. Perhaps the RAV4 feels too small, and the Highlander too large. No worries! Introducing the all-new 2021 Toyota Venza, as they say in the three bears…this one’s just right. Sleek and Sophisticated One look and you know this isn’t your Auntie’s Venza! (That model went away in 2015). While the Venza shares a chassis with the RAV4, it looks entirely …

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2021 Mercedes AMG GLE63 S Review by Matt Barnes

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2021 Mercedes AMG GLE63 S The Mercedes AMG GLE63 S lives in a market segment we don’t fully understand. What we do know, is that we love the absurdity of it. Exterior From the outside the GLE63 is a little deceiving. From some angles it appears much smaller than it actually is, but not from the front. The grill is large, but the gigantic outboard bumper openings are what really draw attention. With the massive Mercedes tri star emblem in the center of the grill, there is no question who makes the GLE. There are very bright LED headlights with …

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Jeep Wrangler Magneto Headlines Easter Jeep Safari, First Wrangler BEV Establishes Off-Road Chops

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When Jeep first teased the Magneto, we had no idea what exactly Jeep had up its sleeve. FCA/Stellantis was always behind the eight ball when it came to developing battery technology, and we weren’t too sure if the Magneto would be a pure electric offering or if it would be some sort of hybrid offering. But as it turns out, Jeep engineers did have a green surprise and revealed that the Magneto will be the first BEV Wrangler ever made.   Electrifying The Trails For the moment, the Magneto exists as a one-off concept creation, but as the name implies, …

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Road Test Review – 2021 Lexus GX 460 Luxury – An Aging Veteran In A Digital World

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The pace of change can be a tough mistress to keep up with sometimes. Technology has been on a nitrous-powered rocket as far as progress is concerned, with the amount of evolution here being very noticeable over the last few decades. But while some automakers have made the art of luring customers with the next big thing an art form. What if you’re a consumer that prefers to hang on to old technology and prefers to own a tool that’s reliable and proven? Lexus might have the thing you’re looking for with the 2021 Lexus GX 460. But can the …

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2021 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Review and Snow Run By Matt Barnes

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2021 Colorado ZR2 The dated Colorado receives a few minor updates for 2021. On the exterior, the ZR2 gets a revised facia and better visibility for the driver. The tow hooks up front have been painted red to make them easier to find. For the rear the tailgate now features a stamped “CHEVROLET” instead of the bow tie emblem. Inside the Colorado remains the same as in years past. The two Engine options remain the same for the ZR2. A diesel option with the 2.8-liter Duramax inline 4 that has 181 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque or the 3.6-liter …

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Kia Debuts All New EV6, First E-GMP Model For Company Shows New Styling Language

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Back in 2007, Kia introduced what would ultimately become its signature design, the tiger-nose grille. The new front grille allowed Kia models equipped with it to look more assertive than their frumpy predecessors, and it also played a key role in catapulting Kia to its current levels of success. But after 13 years of loyal service, the Korean car brand is looking towards the future and will be moving on from this iconic design, with the all-new EV6 serving as a glimpse into what this new identity will look like.   Kia’s EV6 Moves Brand Into New Territory As mentioned, …

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2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 Review by Matt Barnes

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2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 Chevy’s experience with full size SUVs runs deep. In fact, the oldest nameplate in automotive history is the Suburban. That said, the Tahoe Z71, being the Suburban’s slightly shorter sibling, has more pedigree behind it than nearly any other vehicle on the market. How does the latest model stack up to this incredible heritage? Exterior Despite being from the same GM trio, the Tahoe looks significantly different from its Yukon and Escalade siblings. The front end of the Z71 is clearly designed to be more rugged and off-road ready than other Tahoes. Starting from the bottom, …

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Jeep Wagoneer Family Vs Ford Expedition How Does It Measure Up?

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The dust is still settling off of Jeep‘s unveiling of the 2022 Jeep Wagoneer family. We went into depth on the duo here, but we wanted to dive deep and see how the Wagoneer and the Grand Wagoneer measure up against a key rival, the 2021 Ford Expedition. The big Ford is arguably one of the most popular family haulers in the market today and will undoubtedly be a potent measuring stick for the Wagoneer. Check out how the tale of the tape measures up below.   The War Of Styling Favors Wagoneer When it comes to aesthetics, we think …

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Jeep Unveils 2022 Grand Wagoneer & Wagoneer Models, Luxury Meshes With Proven Performance

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It has been a long time coming, but Jeep has finally taken the veil off of the 2022 Grand Wagoneer and Wagoneer models. The duo signifies that the SUV brand is taking a serious approach to the full-size SUV market and is a grand departure from the failed Commander of the early 2000s. But buyers will be interested to know what the revived off-road icon is packing under the hood and some of the exotic luxury features that can be found inside the Grand Wagoneer? We have the answers, and here are some key things to know about Jeep’s rebooted …

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Jeep Teases Wrangler Easter Safari Concepts, Confirms Magneto Nameplate

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The annual Easter Jeep Safari is rapidly approaching, and despite the pressures of a pandemic, the off-road gods have found a way to soldier on with this time-honored tradition. It’s also a busy week for Jeep, which has been on a blitz when teasing new models. Yesterday was our latest glimpse at the 2022 Grand Wagoneer, and now the brand confirms that the Magneto nameplate is coming to a Wrangler concept that will be making its debut at the event.   Put Down Your Comic Books This Is Indeed Happening When Jeep first teased this mysterious concept, we initially thought …

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2021 Toyota Rav4 Prime XSE AWD Video Review by Matt Barnes

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2021 Rav4 Prime Overview The Rav4 Prime is Toyota’s plug in hybrid version of the Rav4. It has the most horsepower and torque and is the quickest Rav4 we’ve tested. Our test model was a Rav4 Prime XSE AWD. The base price is $41,425, but our tester was nicely equipped with premium audio ($1,650), Weather Package (375), Special Color ($425), Premium Package ($3,765), and a few other minor things totaling $731. Throw in the $1,120 destination charge and the total MSRP of our tester was $49,461. The Rav4 Prime has impressive driving chacteristics and is fun to drive. We enjoyed …

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Ford Shows Off 2022 Super Duty, New Technology Highlights Minor Updates

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Ford’s Super Duty lineup has been a long-serving lynchpin in the company’s sales machine due to their impressive capability and ability to bring the fight to rivals from Ram and Chevrolet. But some of the current generation Super Duty‘s core essentials haven’t changed too much since 2017 ( the trucks were mildly updated for 2020.) But that’s not stopping the company from continually improving this stout workhorse, and the firm has revealed the latest round of updates for 2022.   Bigger Screen Cement 2022 Super Duty Interior Changes A key change that Ford made for the 2021 Super Duty was …

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2021 GMC Yukon Denali Review by Matt Barnes

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2021 GMC Yukon Denali GM has always been the leader in full size SUV sales. With the introduction of the Suburban in 1935, they have more experience in the game that any other brand. For 2021 GM completely redesigned their full-size SUV lineup, including the Yukon Denali. Full disclosure: GMC sent us a 2021 GMC Yukon Denali with a full tank of gas for us to review. Exterior The first thing noticed on the exterior of the Denali is the massive mesh grill with bold GMC lettering. It’s bold and aggressive. The LED headlights bracketed with the daytime running lights …

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2021 Renegade and Wrangler Islander Models Embrace Summer Vibes

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The snow is melting and for many parts of the country, it’s getting a bit warmer. While summer is still a few months away, that didn’t stop Jeep from revealing its newest crop of special edition models the 2021 Renegade and Wrangler Islander models. Like other special edition models, this island-themed duo aims to bring younger buyers to showrooms while also adding some spice to the lineup at the same time.   Renegade Islander Catches Some Rays With Islander Package Before we get into the Wrangler, we might as well start things off with the tiny Renegade crossover which receives …

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2021 Durango R/T Tow N Go Video Review by Matt Barnes

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2021 Durango R/T Tow N Go Review Dodge is a standout among manufacturers today. Offering gobs of power in a variety of vehicles with a stick it to the man attitude has made Dodge one of the few remaining companies willing to pay out fines for poor fuel economy to give the people what they want. The R/T Tow N Go is the performance oriented Durango for those who can’t justify the insanity of the SRT or Hellcat, but still want to have fun. It also gives the driver the possibility of towing a significant 8,700 pounds. Is the Durango …

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2020 Mazda CX-9

Road Test Review – 2020 Mazda CX-9 Signature – The Ultimate Signature of Luxury?

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In a world where many CUVs appear to have been crafted out of soulless toasters and dryers, the 2020 Mazda CX-9 has emerged as a very vibrant exception to the rule. The exterior styling looks like it was lifted from a sports car, and the interior blurs the line between mainstream and luxury. But in a segment where the pool is rapidly becoming a very crowded place, Mazda’s biggest utility offering needs to be sharper than ever. But does it succeed in drawing attention to itself? Or does it miss the mark in other regards?   Sultry Exterior Styling Makes …

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Land Rover Ups The Insanity With All New 2022 Defender V8, Last Hurrah For Eight Cylinder Fun?

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When we had the chance to review the revived Land Rover Defender, we liked how it managed to add a new twist to an endearing icon. But while the turbocharged mild-hybrid inline-six is a welcome slice of power, it was quite obvious that the platform was capable of handling much more power. Land Rover engineers have apparently heard our musings and unleashed the 2022 Land Rover Defender V8.   Muscular V8 Transforms The Defender V8 Into a Beast It’s not very often that we highlight the performance hardware first, but in this case, the Defender V8 is all about promoting …

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Ford Brings Wild West Luxury To 2021 Explorer King Ranch, Rear Wheel Drive Comes To 3.0 Liter V6

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When Ford first teased an all-new King Ranch model was on the way, the company initially was vague on what model will be adorned with the wild west theme. We initially suspected the Explorer, but the brief teaser video was lacking in detail. As it turns out, we were on the right track with the Blue Oval officially unveiling the 2021 Explorer King Ranch.   Light Exterior Tweaks Define King Ranch Transformation Like other King Ranch models in the fold, the Explorer King Ranch brings several unique touches inside and out. But before we get into the good stuff inside, …

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Shelby F-250 Super Baja Breaks Cover, Brawny Truck Limited To Only 250 Examples

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Are you an off-road enthusiast that looks at a Ram TRX or even the recently unveiled Ford Raptor and thinks they are not outrageous enough? If you prefer an extra pinch of insanity to go along with a bigger rig to bust through off-road trails, the folks at Shelby might have the solution to your problem, the Shelby F-250 Super Baja.   Bigger and Brawnier Than Ever As the name implies, the F-250 Super Baja is built on a donor F-250 Super Duty, but it’s far removed from its days as a mere Lariat Ultimate model. Shelby designers have given …

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Kia Reboots The Minivan With 2022 Carnival, Festive Interior Compliments Modern Styling

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Kia’s quest to reinvent itself has produced some excellent entries, with the Telluride full-size SUV and the Seltos CUV being the latest nuggets of success for the Korean car brand. But amid all of this newfound success resided one prominent stalwart, the Kia Sedona minivan. Designed to compete with segment leaders like the Chrysler Pacifica, Honda Odyssey, and the Toyota Sienna, the Sedona initially promised to wow buyers with equipment and features. But with the surge in SUV and CUV demand, the Sedona has morphed into an afterthought. That’s about to change, though, with the introduction of the 2022 Kia …

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Ioniq 5

Hyundai Unveils 2022 Ioniq 5 EV, Will Feature Ultra Fast Charging and Futuristic Interior

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When Hyundai revealed that it was launching the all-new Ioniq sub-brand, we were very interested in seeing what would help spearhead the launch of this green-focused brand. After months of teasers, the Korean car giant has answered this key question with the unveiling of the production version of the 2022 Ioniq 5 EV. The Ioniq 5 might look like a hatchback initially, but it’s actually an advanced SUV and aims to change the way buyers look at electric cars in a few key ways.   Futuristic Design Sets Ioniq 5 Apart From Rivals One of the Ioniq brand’s core driving …

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2021 Nissan Titan Pro 4x Review and Off-Road By Matt Barnes

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2021 Titan Pro 4x We recently had the chance to put the 2021 Nissan Titan Pro 4x through its paces. The Titan XD’s little brother is an excellent truck, and can be a great value when purchasing at a discount! Our test model’s MSRP was $61,345 including all options and the destination charges. Review Overall the Titan is an excellent truck with great on road manners. The VK56 5.6-liter V8 has the power get up to speed and tow up to 9,310 pounds. The new for 2020 9-speed automatic has smooth yet crisp shifts. It seems to be in the …

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Ford Teases 2021 Explorer King Ranch, Set To Debut Feb 24th

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Ford’s lineup of King Ranch models has become very potent sellers for the Blue Oval. There’s no denying that it’s a trendy upgrade for buyers from the massive Expedition to the mighty F-Series pickups. But what if you want the King Ranch experience in a smaller package? Ford might have the answer with the 2021 Explorer King Ranch.   Eddie Who? Something big is coming to the ranch. 🗓 February 24. pic.twitter.com/bhYuAxyPBP — Ford Motor Company (@Ford) February 22, 2021 Ford’s brief teaser video didn’t reveal too much with only a fleeting glimpse of the exterior as the Explorer thundered …

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2020 Ford Ranger Lariat Drive Review By Matt Barnes

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2020 Ford Ranger Lariat Ford brought the Ranger back to the U.S. as a 2019 model year. However, it has been living its life globally since 2015. While that is still much newer that the 2021 Nissan Frontier that’s been around since 2005, its not exactly the all new platform it appears to be. On-Road One of the first things noticed when driving the Ranger is that the rear suspension is stiff. The payload capacity of the Ranger is in line with many half-ton trucks. Consequently, this makes the little Ranger feel harsh over bumps when unladen, but also provides …

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Volta Trucks Selects Proterra To Supply Batteries For Volta Zero

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With the spotlight shining brightly on EVs in the traditional car and truck market, it can be easy to forget that the technology is also making waves in the commercial sector, with several startup companies aiming to make their mark in this hotly contested slice of the electric vehicle market. One of those companies is Volta Trucks. Volta is a relatively new firm but is out to make a mark in the commercial sector. The company recently announced a big milestone with the firm securing battery supplier Proterra for its Volta Zero EV truck. Proterra Provides The Juice For Volta …

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Mitsubishi Reinvents The Wheel With 2022 Outlander, New Styling and Technology Reinvent Languishing Nameplate

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Regarding major facelifts, few are as big of a deal as the one that the Mitsubishi Outlander has received for 2022. The Outlander’s last revamp was back in 2014, and it has slipped behind rivals ever since. While our previous exposures to the Outlander did allow us to soak in its impressive fuel economy numbers, it also showed just how behind the times it was, especially regarding interior quality and technology. The 2022 model aims to change that, and here are our four favorite things about this revamped Mitsu.   Concept Car Styling In A Utility Driven World The exterior …

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Chevrolet Adds Magic To Bolt Lineup for 2022, Unveils All New Bolt EUV and Updated Bolt EV

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It’s no secret that General Motors is committed to an all-electric future. The company fired the first big salvo when the Hummer EV made its virtual debut. The Hummer was just the beginning of GM’s Ultium battery-powered endeavor, with the Cadillac Lyriq and Celestiq also teased. However, the company knows that it needs to have offerings at the lower end of the pricing bracket to bring in more customers. That’s where the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV and the redesigned Bolt EV models come into play. No Ultium Here But Still Plenty To See Before we go any further, we might …

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Stellantis Files Trademark For Magneto Moniker, Could It Be Name For Wrangler BEV?

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We’ll admit Jeep and Stellantis did a good job catching our attention when they revealed that a Wrangler EV concept would be making its debut soon. But we were left with more questions than answers since Jeep chose only to release two shadowy images and a brief teaser video of the Wrangler EV buried in the brand’s “The Road Ahead” website. But a newly discovered patent filing suggests that we could at least get a hint into what the concept will be called with the Magneto name making its appearance.   Magneto Makes Us Run For Our X-Men Comics When …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Hyundai Kona EV – Can Old Man Winter Damper This Electrified CUV?

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The change of the seasons can be a make or break time for certain automobiles. In the case of EVs, this dilemma plays out when it comes to battery capacity, with the extreme heat of summer and winter’s icy cold grip having their respective effects on battery charge and driving range. When we last met the Hyundai Kona EV in Michigan, it was during the fall of 2018, with the state experiencing summer-like weather. Hyundai also limited our brief exposure to the area near its Hyundai America Technical Center (HATCI), which kept us from exploring the EVs day to day …

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2022 Nissan Pathfinder Pitches The CVT, Gains New Interior Technology and Revamped Exterior Styling

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The Nissan Pathfinder has always been a reliable soldier for Nissan when it came to competing in the mid-size utility segment. The Pathfinder is one of Nissan’s strongest sellers. Still, it was also one of the oldest models in its arsenal, with the Pathfinder only bested in that dubious distinction by the outgoing Nissan Frontier pickup. Nissan is keen to keep the Pathfinder viable and has unveiled the updated 2022 Pathfinder to the digital masses.   What’s Wrong With Being Confident? Much like the hit song by music artist Demi Lovato, Nissan aimed to make the Pathfinder look much more …

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2022 Frontier Buries The Past, Helps Nissan Race To The Future With New Technology

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The current generation Nissan Frontier is a textbook case of how to stay stagnant in a rapidly developing world. First making its appearance back when George W. Bush was president, the rugged Frontier was supposed to be a value-focused mid-size pickup offering that could bring buyers capability and utility. That formula worked for a time, until the competition caught up, and then subsequently lapped it over the years. Nissan has had enough of being the butt of jokes in the mid-size pickup segment and has unveiled its long-awaited (and quite frankly overdue) replacement, the 2022 Nissan Frontier, after a brief …

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2021 BMW X5 X Drive 45e by Ben Lewis

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Amazing how quickly time and technology change things. It used to be an EV was a golf cart, and a hybrid was one of the agrarian looking Toyota Prius models. The good thing is, there are a lot of talented engineers that work for the automakers, and the vehicles we get today are exciting and fun – no matter what may be under the hood. And a perfect example of today’s performance hybrid is the 2021 BMW X5 with the all-new 45e plug-in hybrid system. If you were expecting something for the Birkenstock and Bean Sprout crowd, the X5 will …

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Ford Confirms Raptor R for 2022, What You Should Know About Ford’s TRX Fighter

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The dust is still settling on the launch of the 2021 Ford Raptor but while Ford‘s newest off-road bruiser brings plenty of technology and performance right out the gate, a much more potent predator is lurking in the waters and will make its debut in 2022. Here’s a few things that should excite you about the 2022 Ford Raptor R Wilder Styling Will Make Raptor R Stand Out The standard Ford Raptor already brings plenty of styling mojo right out of the box, but look for all that to be ratcheted up for the Raptor R. With the new Raptor …

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Ford Hits The Dunes With The 2021 F-150 Raptor, Hotter Raptor R Coming Next Year

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When Ford first unleashed the F-150 Raptor back in 2009 it wanted to create a distinct mold that could separate it from other off-road trucks. While the Raptor was capable of going through rough trails, the company also wanted to create an offering that could allow owners to have fun especially when going high speed down sandy terrain and even catching hang time occasionally when going over a big jump. This formula has proven to be very successful for Ford, with the Raptor getting a sizable cult following over the years. But with the Ram TRX waving its battle flag …

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Ford Bronco To Compete In King of The Hammers, Aims To Solidify Go Anywhere Reputation

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The Ford Bronco is already one of the most hyped vehicles of 2021 and we had a chance to see it embrace its racing pedigree with the Bronco recently taking part in the 2020 running of the Baja 1000 race. But Ford is always up for a challenge and has its eyes set on an even bigger prize, winning the 2021 King of The Hammers off-road race.   Ultra4 Bronco Aims To Slay The Trails The Dearborn auto giant is hoping to cement its place in history by entering three Bronco based entries which will compete in the Ultra4 4400 …

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Nissan Teases 2022 Pathfinder In New Video, Appears To Confirm V6 Powertrain

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It has been a long time since we heard anything new about the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder. The current generation Pathfinder has been a key offering for Nissan over the past few years but it’s also due for a more comprehensive update. Nissan has ended its radio silence and released an all new teaser video ahead of the Pathfinder’s debut in February.   Is That a V6 We Hear Under The Hood? Nissan’s video was quite brief but there is still a number of details that can be gleaned from this brief piece of footage. For instance, you can hear what …

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Latest 2021 F-150 Raptor Teaser Shows Front Fascia, Confirms February Debut

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It’s no secret that the 2021 Ford F-150 Raptor was going to make its appearance on February 3rd, but other than a vague teaser image we didn’t get a chance to see much of the new Raptor itself. That’s changed with a brief teaser video showing the front fascia of the new Raptor without any form of camouflage whatsoever which serves as our first look at Ford’s TRX fighter.   Smoother Styling Highlights Raptor Changes The current generation Raptor is arguably the most distinct model in the F-150 range but its brutish looks don’t necessarily translate into something that is …

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2022 Tucson N Line

Hyundai Brings N Line Package To 2022 Tucson N Line, Sporty Style Blends With Practicality

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Sportiness and SUVs can be two words that many people will not necessarily see co-existing together. But as the utility world continues to rapidly evolve and morph into a vital artery of sales for automakers, we have noticed a trend towards adding some spice to their utility offerings especially to draw in male buyers that might otherwise stay away from them. Hyundai is determined to get its N Line package on solid footing, and has unveiled the second iteration of the package on the 2022 Tucson N Line.   Tucson N Line Puts On Quite A Show Like other N-Line …

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Xterra

Nissan Dealers Beg Company To Bring Back Xterra SUV, Cite Rapidly Increasing Demand In Off-Road Segment

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It’s no secret that the off-road vehicle market has seen a massive surge in interest and popularity among buyers over the past few years. The Ram TRX, Ford Raptor, and even venerable icons like the Jeep Wrangler and its pickup cousin the Gladiator are encouraging more buyers to explore nature and the beaten paths that lead to them. One notable brand that has been absent from the party so far is Nissan but many dealers are demanding the return of the iconic Xterra nameplate to help them cash in on some of the fruits of this sales surge   An …

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Buick Officially Launches 2021 Buick Envision, Will Launch Ad Campaign This Spring

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The 2021 Buick Envision first made its appearance back in 2020 and while the brand was willing to share some information about the model, we were still left in the dark on some of the more detailed aspects that made this iteration of Envision stand out from its predecessors. Buick has ended this drought of information and has officially launched the 2021 Envision with the model trickling its way into dealer showrooms now. Revamped Styling Pumps Vigor Into Envision When the Buick Envision first appeared it was often described as a model that looked handsome but lacked the visual spark …

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2022 Buick Enclave

Buick Provides First Glimpse Of 2022 Enclave, Promises To Bring More Of Everything To Buyers

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The Buick Enclave has been a key player in Buick’s ongoing quest towards reinventing itself as an all SUV and CUV brand. But while its large size and luxury focused features are still potent selling points for the model, it’s no secret that the current generation is due for an update. Buick has delivered with a preview of the 2022 Buick Enclave which brings new styling and Envision infused elegance into its repertoire.   New Styling Promises To Be Much More Dynamic When we last reviewed the Buick Enclave, we commented on how it needed to upgrade its exterior styling …

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2020 Titan XD Platinum Reserve Drive and Off-Road Review by Matt Barnes

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2020 Titan XD Platinum Reserve Nissan updated the Titan XD for 2020 with a bit of a refresh. Horsepower is up just a little when using premium fuel and gone is the 5.0 Cummins V8 diesel. Nissan only offers the Titan XD in one configuration, the Crew Cab with a 6.5-foot bed. This was the biggest seller in previous years and should help Nissan cut costs while still providing consumers with what they want the most. Exterior Outside the Titan XD has been given a new front design that’s a bolder and more aggressive. Every trim level has a unique …

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2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Teases Rear Styling In New Video, Confirms Reveal Date [Video]

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When we last saw the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV, it was its steering wheel which confirmed that the electrified CUV would be the first Chevy to bring Super Cruise technology to the brand. We have been waiting for more information to emerge since, and Chevrolet has delivered the goods (kinda) with an all new teaser video that shows the rear end and also confirms the final reveal date. Disney Magic To Underline Bolt EUV’s Debut When the Bolt EUV makes its debut on February 14th it will do so with the help of Mickey Donald, Goofy, and the rest of …

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Hennessey Pumps Up Ram TRX With All New Mammoth Custom Truck, Brings 1,000 Horsepower To The Fray

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The Ram TRX shocked the system when it made its debut last year. Designed to bring the Ford Raptor to its knees, the truck boasts a 702 horsepower version of the familiar 6.2 liter supercharged Hellcat V8 and enough off-road upgrades to make it an absolute beast out on the trails. But what if you took a TRX, added more power, and added enhanced levels of off-road capability? If your the folks at Hennessey you get the all new Mammoth TRX which transforms the truck into a four wheeled kaiju of destruction Ram TRX Goes To The Ice Age For …

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Road Test Review – 2020 Toyota RAV4 Limited Hybrid – Does Luxury and Green Driving Mix?

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The RAV4 has emerged as one of the most versatile SUVs in Toyota‘s vehicle arsenal. The RAV4 has a foundation that can be suited for a wide variety of uses including camping as we proved in a prior RAV4 related test and even in the plug-in realm with the recently launched RAV4 Prime. But what if your a buyer that’s looking for something that can sip fuel instead and also deliver decent amounts of comfort for the money? Toyota may have just the solution for you with the RAV4 Hybrid Limited. But does this particular flavor of RAV4 go far …

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2021 Toyota Sienna Video Review by Matt Barnes

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The 2021 Toyota Sienna is a great effort to stop the decrease in minivan sales. If anything, the minivan battle is heating up between the Pacifica, Odyssey, and Sienna. While the Sienna keeps the looks similar to the previous generation Toyota has made some body changes that really up the appeal. Beyond the updated looks, Toyota has greatly improved the driving dynamics as well. Toyota has done an excellent job in making the ride and handling more like a sedan than a van. Gone is the nauseous wafting feeling of yesteryear, in is a firm-controlled ride.

Road Test Review – 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty King Ranch – Is It Still King Of The Pickups?

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When it comes to reigning supreme over the heavy duty pickup segment, few can match the track record wielded by Ford’s Super Duty lineup. The Super Duty has been a sales force for Ford, and it has consistently been a thorn in the side of its chief HD rivals the Chevrolet Silverado (and it’s GMC badged clone the Sierra) as well as the Ram heavy duty lineup of trucks. But this work focused segment is evolving at a rapid pace and Ram in particular is turning up the heat in the heavy duty pickup wars. Does Ford still have what …

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2021 Honda Pilot Black Edition by Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the VW Atlas, and came away impressed with the 3-row SUV’s nice driving manners and European feel. A VW through and through to be sure. And now we have Honda’s competitor for your same hard-earned dollar the 3-row Pilot. So how does it stack up? Let’s take a look! Dressed to Impress Following the sensible design of such models as the CR-V and Passport, the Pilot was never one to knock you over. In fact, we loved the original Pilot, which was a big, square and blocky – so functional it was stylish in its own way. …

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2021 Nissan Rogue SL AWD Review by Matt Barnes

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The Rogue is Nissan’s top selling vehicle. Therefore Nissan knew that any changes made would have to be done with precision. Nissan has a noteworthy plan to introduce 10 new models over the course of 20 months and the Rogue is part of that plan. Quick Take Nissan has been struggling the past few years, but we are hoping these new updates to nearly all their models will change that. Helping push the value concept, the Rogue has the most standard safety technologies in its class. This includes Nissan Safety Shield 360, Intelligent Driver Alertness, and Rear Door Alert. Furthermore, …

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2020 Ford Expedition Review by Matt Barnes

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2020 Ford Expedition Can the 2020 Ford Expedition take on GM’s Tahoe/Yukon twins? GM created the full-size SUV segment and has pretty much been the undisputed leader until recent years. Many have tried, but few have been successful in competing with GM in this arena. The Ford Expedition is one of the few that have. The last major redesign of the Ford Expedition was in 2018 and the updates for 2020 have been minor. Consequently, Ford sent us a middle of the pack Expedition Limited 4×4 to test for a week. There are two wheelbases of the Expedition available, the …

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Bolt EUV

Chevrolet Bolt EUV Teased With New Image and Video, Will Make Its Debut Later This Summer

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In addition to the waves Cadillac made with the first teaser video and images of its Celestiq flagship sedan, Chevrolet was also out to stake its claim in the EV utility wars with the brand sharing the first image of its Bolt EUV to the assembled digital crowds at CES. The EUV version of the Bolt aims to expand the Bolt lineup and give buyers a utility focused alternative to the standard Bolt.   Bolt EUV Cruising To The Future With Super Cruise Unlike the festivities surrounding the Celestiq, the folks at Chevrolet kept the bulk of their cards closely …

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2021 Mazda CX-5 Signature AWD by Ben Lewis

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You don’t really have to twist our arms to get us to review a Mazda. Just about all of them are great fun to drive, from the Miata sports car up to the big CX-9 SUV. The Mazda 3 and CX30 are also faves. But the heart and soul of Mazda’s lineup – and for most manufacturers – is its compact SUV. And with some nice updates to make it more appealing, we’re excited to take to the road in the CX-5. Stay Classy, CX-5 For 2021 not much has changed on the CX-5’s shapely flanks, and that’s ok, it …

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2021 GMC AT4 vs 2021 Chevy RST Z71

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Half-ton truck diesel engines have made their way into the big three American brands. Ford and Ram both use 3.0-liter V6 engines while the GM products use a 3.0-liter Inline 6. How does this engine perform in GM’s 1500 twins and what are the differences between the two trucks? GMC has been trying to differentiate themselves from Chevy as a more premium brand. Often times new tech will debut in the GMC and trickle down into the Chevy equivalent i.e. the MultiPro and MultiFlex tailgates. Other times GMC will get tech not available in the Chevy i.e. the Denali exclusive …

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2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Revealed, More Tech, Revamped Styling and Third Row Are Highlights [Video]

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While the Jeep brand is usually better known for the rough and rugged Wrangler and Gladiator models, the Grand Cherokee SUV still plays a vital role in the company’s sales ambitions. First making its debut in 1993, the Grand Cherokee has been a vital cog in Jeep’s operations and is the true bread and butter model of the off-road focused brand. The current generation Grand Cherokee is still a strong seller, but as we mentioned in our last GC related piece, it’s long overdue for a revamp. Jeep has finally addressed this with the unveiling of the 2021 Grand Cherokee …

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Jeep Teases 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Will Make Debut January 7th, 3 Key Things To Know

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Jeep had alot on its plate when it was developing the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee. but the numerous renderings and spy photos have all led us to this key moment with Jeep revealing that the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be making its debut in less than 24 hours. The Grand Cherokee has always been a very important model for Jeep, and the 2021 iteration is no different. Here’s three key things that you should look out for when it makes its debut.   Debuts new Grand Cherokee L designation More room for adventure. Tune in tomorrow at 12 PM …

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Road Test Review – 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Premier: Is GM’s Full-Size SUV Better Than Ever?

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When we last had the chance to see the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, it was when the made their debut at the Little Caesars Arena late last year. The Suburban and the Tahoe rolled across the stage debuting brand new exterior styling, a revamped platform, and a completely reworked interior that aimed to rocket Chevrolet into the modern age. But can the duo follow up on the success of their predecessors while also incorporating new ideas at the dame time? We were eager to find out.   Refreshed duds keep Tahoe fresh To find out, Chevrolet sent us a …

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2021 VW Atlas V6 SEL Premium R-Line by Ben Lewis

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The 3-row SUV segment is a funny thing. It seems to get hot and cold. Suddenly everyone wants one. Then just as suddenly, only those with an absolute need want them. Right now the market is hot, hot, with big winners including the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade and Toyota Highlander. Along with them has been the VW Atlas, which for 2021 gets a bit of a makeover, helping it take on these relative upstarts. How does it stack up? Let’s take a look! Bigger and Buffer While the Atlas has been the poster child for the “Big Box” SUV school …

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2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 pricing breaks cover, costs more than Hellcat powered Ram TRX

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When the first factory powered Jeep Wrangler in over four decades first made its appearance back in November, the world was pleasantly surprised. Granted, it was an obvious attempt by FCA to steal attention away from the revived Ford Bronco but the notion of a Wrangler being infused with the same 6.4 liter Hemi V8 seen in other SRT products was very enticing. Early pricing for the Wrangler 392 had emerged, and be prepared to pay accordingly for the chance to have some V8 powered Wrangler fun. It costs more than the Ram TRX, for real This information does not …

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2021 Volvo XC60 T5 AWD Momentum by Ben Lewis

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Volvo has always gone its own way. In the early days, they were stout little machines, that were some of the greatest innovators when it came to safety. Their rugged and reliable drivetrains helped make them rally champions, and became legendary for logging high miles. (Remember that guy with the P1800 that went over 3 million miles?). Outside of maybe the P1800, they weren’t really known for being stylish – they were sensible and functional, but design wasn’t on the menu. And then suddenly we got the modern Volvo, and taking a page out of Swedish Design, with its cool …

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Hyundai makes Palisade Calligraphy more accessible, adds front wheel drive variant

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Hyundai‘s range topping Palisade Calligraphy comes loaded to the brim with technology and even adds extra amounts of luxury to the Palisade. But what if your a family buyer that wants to add one to your growing garage but don’t need all-wheel drive and would like to save a few pennies in the process? If that description fits you, Hyundai has delivered an early Christmas present that aims to add some extra cheer to your holiday. Front wheel drive with all the luxury Palisade fittings So how was Hyundai able to shave some dollars from the Calligraphy’s sticker? It all …

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2021 Honda Odyssey Elite by Ben Lewis

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It’s always interesting to see what an Automaker does with a best-selling model. You want to keep things fresh and exciting, but you also don’t want to alienate the faithful, right? Such is the case with the Honda Odyssey minivan – America’s retail best-selling minivan for the past 10 years. It’s a great record. But do you mess with success, or play the conservative game? Let’s see what the 2021 Model Year brings for the popular Honda people mover. Fresh Face Well, the Odyssey was already quite a sporty looking vehicle, but that didn’t stop Honda from making it even …

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2020 4 Runner TRD PRO Review By Matt Barnes

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With Toyota sending us the 4 Runner TRD PRO to test for a week, we have now had seat time in all their currently available off-roaders. The 4 Runner still uses the 4.0 V6 and 5 speed auto, which uses a little more fuel and isn’t as refined as some newer offerings, but that didn’t matter once we left the pavement. In our opinion, the 4 Runner TRD PRO is the best Toyota for all types of off-road terrain. Scroll to the bottom to get our take on the other TRD PRO Vehicles. The 4 Runner TRD PRO starts at …

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2021 Chevy Trailblazer Video Reviews By Matt Barnes

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Chevy re-released the Trailblazer as a 2021 model year crossover. It is available with a pair of 3-cylinder turbo power plants, and has optional AWD. Our test model was a 2021 Trailblazer AWD Activ model. The new Trailblazer is a much smaller package than the previous generation which was a body on frame SUV. Becoming a small crossover with a unibody frame has completely changed the Trailblazer from what it used to be. It now handles fairly well and has a very stiff chassis. The engines are all new for this year first debuting in the Buick Encore GX. The …

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Production Bollinger B1

Bollinger reveals production versions of B1 and B2, 3 important things to know

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When we last heard from Oak Park, Michigan based EV manufacturer Bollinger Motors the company revealed a rudimentary pricing ladder for the B1 SUV and B2 pickup along with news that a chassis cab variant was in the works. Since then, the company has maintained a low profile, but it decided to surprise the world with the production versions of both the B1 and B2. Here’s 5 things to know about what has carried over to the masses and what hasn’t. A new color hides rudimentary changes A major thing that curious observers will notice is the addition of a …

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Nissan brings new technology and revamped styling to 2021 Armada: 5 things you should pay attention to

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Nissan is wading through some troubled waters as the Japanese auto company tries to not only navigate its way through the fallout created by the ouster of former CEO Carlos Ghosn but also the unique economic challenges brought about by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The recent unveiling of the Z Proto concept showed that the company was off to a good start, and it has now brought this renewed vigor to the flagship SUV segment with the unveiling of the heavily revamped 2021 Armada. Like the company, the Armada was adrift for a while, watching helplessly as rivals were updated …

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Acura unveils the 2022 MDX SUV: 5 Important Things To Know

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When Acura unveiled the MDX Prototype Concept it was very clear that the Japanese luxury brand was taking the flagship SUV market very seriously. The company wanted to show that it still had some tricks up its sleeve and that its ongoing efforts to rebuild its performance heritage were not merely a smoke and pony show. Thankfully after a brief wait Acura has pulled the veil off of the 2022 MDX which aims to shatter the perceptions that people have about Acura. Here’s five important things to know about Acura’s new and improved people hauler.   It’s a looker Acura …

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2021 F-150 Tremor

Ford hits the trail with the 2021 F-150 Tremor: 5 things you should know about this latest off-road toy

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When Ford first rebooted the Tremor lineup with the introduction of the Tremor Super Duty it aimed to bring a whole new approach to the way Ford marketed off-road vehicles. A buyer didn’t have to be limited to the Raptor and could instead opt for a completely different off-road package that could bust the trails for much less money. But while the Ranger Tremor arrived to serve as the definitive entry model, there was a noticeable void between it and the Super Duty. Ford has now filed that gap with the introduction of the 2021 F-150 Tremor. Here’s five important …

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2020 Sequoia TRD Pro

2020 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro Review: Off-Roading For The Whole Family

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When it comes to blazing through rugged off-road trails and countless other slices of the road less traveled few can compete with Toyota‘s TRD Pro lineup. From the Tacoma and Tundra pickups to the venerable 4-Runner the Japanese auto giant has a tool available to help you best Jeep Wranglers Chevy Colorado ZR2s and others in rough and tumble dogfights. But what if your an off-road enthusiast that has a growing family and you want to take them along for the ride? For awhile, you were limited to the 4-Runner which is a capable hauler in its own right, but …

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A performance focused minivan? We take a look at the 1999 Dodge Caravan R/T Concept

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Ever wonder what would happen if the humble minivan was given a serious infusion of performance to go along with its mall crawling functionality? Many automakers have teased the idea of a performance model, but very few have actually produced it (Dodge did produce a R/T version in 2016.) But did you know that the idea actually had its roots much earlier? In this installment we take a look at the 1999 Dodge Caravan R/T concept to see if  it successfully planted the seeds for a performance focused family mobile? Race ready styling First unveiled to the world in 1999 …

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Lexus swings for the fences with the 2020 Lexus UX 250h hybrid, comes up short

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It’s no secret that Lexus practically invented the luxury SUV category when it first debuted the RX a few decades ago. The RX was a hit and it rode a proverbial sales rocket towards the top of the segment. Despite some recent challenges by a few rivals, Lexus is clearly trying to replicate the success of that model. It’s doing so by introducing a diverse range of smaller crossover models but can models like the 2020 UX 250h hybrid bring some much needed to the lineup? Or is it a noteworthy dead end? Controversial styling reigns supreme on UX The …

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2020 Subaru Outback Onyx Edition XT by By Ben Lewis

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We recently tested the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek, and it’s a capable, honest and quite fun SUV. Between that and the Forester and Ascent, Subaru knows how to make an SUV. But interestingly enough, its best seller isn’t an SUV. Yet it competes with them and shows them up in many ways. Welcome to the Subaru Outback – a tall, capable All-wheel-drive wagon that offers those SUV attributes in a different package. Hey, we like different! And for 2020 the Outback’s all new, too. Let’s take a look. Familiar but tougher looks On the outside, you might have trouble distinguishing the …

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2022 Acura MDX puts on a tease ahead of its December 8th debut

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It’s no secret that Acura is preparing to take the covers off of its revamped 2022 Acura MDX. The newest MDX will represent a very interesting chapter in its history as the model evolves to truly embrace its role as the flagship model for the luxury brand (NSX where are thou? However, the one other thing that has eluded us (along with the NSX’s current status in the lineup) was a date for the MDX’s debut and the Japanese luxury brand has revealed that it will take place December 8th. Keeping up with the 2022 Acura MDX Prototype Acura also …

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The torque wars just got hotter, Ram unveils 2021 2500 & 3500 HD models and reveals 1,075 lb-ft figure

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In an era where the battle for truck supremacy has never been more important, the torque wars can be an often overlooked statistic of the fight (especially with many buyers focusing on other things in their truck purchase.) But the last few years have seen an arms race in torque, with Ford and Ram in particular going back and forth in this fight. Ram is aiming to rewrite the rules of battle though and has unveiled the 2021 Ram HD lineup.   Familiar styling retains big rig look Buyers looking for a new suit of clothes will not find it …

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Remember when Audi found its step? What happened to the 2000 Steppenwolf Concept?

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It’s not too often that automaker manages to find its figurative step when it comes to designing a concept car for the masses. But Audi managed to take things in an interesting direction when the new millennium arrived on the scene. The company that was typically known for making well buttoned luxury cars was keenly aware that not only were SUVs important, but that the very definition of what an SUV should be was also rapidly changing. Perhaps sensing that the wheels of change were grinding into motion, Audi commissioned the Steppenwolf concept car which aimed to answer what would …

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2021 Subaru Crosstrek 2.5L Limited by Ben Lewis

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It’s hard not to like the Subaru Crosstrek – it’s a great looking small crossover, based on the equally likeable Subaru Impreza and it combines a nice compact size with good off-road abilities, and most of the friendly traits that make Subaru an agreeable brand. It has been hard to love the Crosstrek, though. It’s always felt a little underpowered, and the lack of power seemed to highlight the CVT transmission in a negative light. In short, a good vehicle looking for a better engine. Well, Subie heard our wishes, and for 2021, a more powerful 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder replaces the …

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2020 Mazda CX-30 Off-Road Drive Review By Matt Barnes

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Mazda is unique in the automotive world, as it doesn’t report to a parent company. Mazda has a proven record of making reliable and fun to drive vehicles. They have once again delivered with the all new CX-30. Exterior From the outside the CX-30 looks very similar to the Mazda 3 hatchback. Upon closer inspection it becomes clearer that these two are quite different. The CX-30 is about 5-inches taller than the 3 with an additional 2.5-inches of ground clearance. Interestingly enough the CX-30 is also shorter than the 3 by 2.5-inches and has a 3-inch shorter wheelbase. The exterior …

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Ford returns to fabled Baja 1000 race, Bronco R prototype gets second chance at slaying the course

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Ford‘s Bronco is rapidly powering its way towards a pivotal 2021, with the model slated to go on sale nation wide this coming spring. However, before that happens, the company is out to shake a very big monkey off of its back, and has revealed that the Bronco R racing prototype will be making a second attempt at completing the treacherous Baja 1000 race. Aiming to rectify past mistakes The Bronco R’s last trip to Baja could be viewed like the build up to the first encounter between boxers Anthony Joshua and Andy Ruiz, with Ford generating a massive amount …

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A subtle evolution shapes the 2021 Ford F-150 lineup, luxurious interior and Pro Power Onboard feature add depth

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When Ford announced the 2021 Ford F-150, the company knew that it had a very tall order to fill. The F-150 is a very strong seller, and F-150 buyers know what they want in their pickup. As such, any updates that the company did couldn’t be just thrown wildly into the wind for the sake of doing it. Each one had to be carefully thought out to ensure that they made the most impact, and also brought something unique to the customer. Ford thinks it has managed to succeed in this role with the 2021 F-150, But are all these …

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2022 Infiniti QX55 breathes new life into brand’s lineup, features sleek infotainment system

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We won’t judge you if luxury brand Infiniti doesn’t come to mind right away when asked to name one of their models. Infiniti has been in the doldrums as of late both in sales, as well as the current state of their lineup. Our last encounter with Infiniti was several years ago when we traveled out to California to check out the QX50. Since then, not much has happened, but that has all changed, with the luxury brand finally pulling the covers off of the 2022 QX55. FX inspired attitude defines QX55 design When it came to penning the lines …

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Jeep unveils V8 powered 2021 Wrangler Rubicon 392, rewrites the off-road benchmarks

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It has been awhile since a V8 engine found its way into the Jeep Wrangler. For the past several decades, the most potent engine that you could get in a Wrangler was the venerable albeit wimpy 285 horsepower 3.6 liter V6. But we always knew that the Wrangler had a hidden potential for more power, and Jeep has finally delivered on the promise of a V8 powered factory Wrangler, with the unveiling of the Wrangler Rubicon 392. Jeep claims that it’s the perfect blend of both worlds, but is it? Here’s 4 key things to know about the fastest Wrangler …

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2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport aims to appeal to a wider spectrum of buyers, can it succeed?

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The Volkswagen Atlas is a solid three row contender in the SUV segment. But while the Atlas is a solid workhorse for growing families, the big VW is not exactly known for its athletic charm. Volkswagen aims to solve all that with the all new Atlas Cross Sport. But does the Cross Sport succeed in adding more excitement to the Atlas? Or is it a dead end? Sloping roofline and revised looks add some needed edge to Cross Sport At its core, the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is pretty much what you expect it to be, which is to …

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2022 Rezvani Motors Hercules 6×6 goes wild, 3 things that you should know about this insane truck offering

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Remember when pickups used to be treated as a mere tool designed to haul cargo, boats, and were destined for a life out on the job site? These days, it seems that pickups are roleplaying as a wide variety of things. From being off-road focused Billy goats, to even being luxurious and decidedly more capable substitutes for minivans, the segment has never been so diverse as its been in recent years. However, we never suspected that a truck would rise up and call itself “the God of all pickups.” But Rezvani‘s newest creation the Hercules 6×6 aims to do just …

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Ford electrifies the commercial van wars with the 2022 Ford E-Transit, boasts 126 mile electric driving range

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Ford is continuing its rapid march towards pure electrification, and the company has unveiled a key step that helps push its goals even further in the commercial vehicle segment, the 2022 Ford E-Transit.   Subtle styling tweaks hint at E-Transit’s electron fueled mission The Ford Transit is the best selling cargo van in the world, and naturally, Ford did not want to rock the boat too much when it came to exterior styling for the E-Transit. As a result, the core design carries over virtually intact. However, the few changes that are present here focuses solely on the front fascia, …

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Celebrating an icon, 2021 Ram 2500 Power Wagon pays homage to iconic original’s 75th anniversary

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2020 has truly been the year of the 4×4. From the recently revived Ford Bronco, to the Land Rover Defender. This year has certainly been a year to remember for off-road enthusiasts (a welcome distraction from COVID 19 for many of them.) With these kings of the beaten path seeing newfound fame, you can be forgiven if you forgot about the Ram Power Wagon. The rugged Power Wagon has been around in some shape or form for the past 75 years, and Ram is celebrating with the all new Ram 2500 Power Wagon 75th anniversary Edition A classy tribute to …

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Mercedes Sprinter 2500 Review by Matt Barnes

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Mercedes offers over 30 configurations of the Sprinter van, suiting a wide variety of needs. The Sprinter also offers the only true 4wd system in the class. Ford has an AWD system for the transit van and all others in the class are 2wd. Mercedes sent us a 12-passenger high roof 4wd Sprinter 2500 to evaluate for a week. All 4wd models are equipped with a 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel engine and 7-speed automatic transmission. 4wd System Sprinter vans are often converted into capable motorhomes for adventurists. The factory 4wd system is a big plus for those leaving the beaten …

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GM unleashes all new performance parts for 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban

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The revamped 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and its bigger sibling the Suburban just recently began trickling into dealer inventory across the nation, but that’s not stopping GM Performance from preparing a lineup of performance parts for the duo that aim to not only spice up performance, but also provide higher amounts of stopping power too to help beef up their performance game. First thrusted into the spotlight by the folks at GM Authority, these new components are Limited Production Options (LPO) and they bring a number of welcome upgrades to the duo. As expected, the first of these upgrades is found …

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Nissan stealthily provides sneak peek of 2021 Frontier’s new face, shows big changes are coming

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The current generation Nissan Frontier is something of an immortal figure in the pickup segment. Drawing comparisons to the ancient knight in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, the Frontier has soldiered on in its current form since 2004. A recent update gave the Frontier a new engine and transmission, but there was no denying that the bare bones of this long in the tooth truck dated back to the Bush administration. Thankfully, big changes are coming for this reliable workhorse, and while the company is not ready to formally reveal the new model just yet, Nissan’s Mexican division has …

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2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime XSE AWD

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If I say name the fastest 4-door Toyota right now, with over 300 hp and 0-60 under 6 seconds what would you say? Camry TRD? Avalon? Nope. It’s the Toyota RAV4 Prime. Wait a sec. The friendly and familiar RAV4 SUV? A performance vehicle? Yep, and then some. Toyota has been on a roll lately, and they’ve making fun to drive a big part of their new direction as a brand. Camry, Corolla, Supra, heck, even the Highlander is a lot more fun than it used to be. And where hybrids used to be just for super-efficiency, Toyota is showing …

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2020 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E AWD by Ben Lewis

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As we write this, GM just announced the GMC HUMMER EV, a full-EV pickup truck with an available 1,000 horsepower (no typo!), 0-60 in 3 seconds, and even hands-free Super Cruise technology. So, it kind of makes us wonder, what is the definition of a pickup truck? Other manufacturers have messed around with the idea – Dodge offered a convertible pickup, and all the major manufactures offer SuperTrucks that are a mix of muscle car and truck. Honda loves to engineer, and they went a different route – how about a pickup truck that gives you the comfort and ride …

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2020 Subaru Ascent by Ben Lewis

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What if you love your Subaru Outback but find yourself needing more room, especially a 3rd row of seats? Or if you have a 3-row SUV and always wanted a Subaru to call your own? Easy, get yourself a Subaru Ascent. We worried that the transition to such a large vehicle might dilute the Subie goodness we’ve found in the Outback, Forester, Crosstrek – even the WRX. So, we had to ask. Is the biggest Subaru still true to the cause? Subaru Design on Display Well, it certainly looks that way. If you didn’t have a reference point, you might …

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Toyota Highlander Platinum Hybrid Mountain Drive By Matt Barnes

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Toyota was first to market a mass-produced hybrid vehicle with the Prius, and they continue to innovate and improve. The new Highlander is evidence of that with incredible efficiency for a three-row SUV. It switches from full electric to hybrid to full gas motor so smoothly that you’ll miss it unless you’re paying very close attention. The e-CVT uses an ingenious planetary gear system, so no belts like other CVT’s. Toyota has made significant updates for the 2020 Highlander and it is by far the best Highlander yet! Exterior Toyota redesigned the Highlander for 2020 and it looks significantly better …

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